New Hampshire Defeats Portland 19-10

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats defeated the Portland Sea Dogs 15-13 in an extra-innings game on May 8, 2026, at Delta Dental Park. The victory marked the Fisher Cats’ fourth consecutive win in Portland, securing their first road series win of the season.

The deciding play occurred in the top of the 10th inning when designated hitter Sean Keys hit a two-run home run. This blast provided the necessary lead for New Hampshire to secure the win. The home run was the 10th of the season for Keys and his first since April 24, 2026. With this hit, Keys is currently tied for the second-most home runs in the league.

Offensive Performance

New Hampshire’s offense produced 19 hits during the game, establishing a new season high for the team. The Fisher Cats also recorded three home runs throughout the contest.

Shortstop Arjun Nimmala led the offense with four hits, marking the second four-hit game of his professional career. Nimmala’s fourth hit was a run-scoring double in the top of the ninth inning, which proved crucial to the final outcome.

The Fisher Cats began the game with a strong offensive surge in the first inning. With one out, the team loaded the bases following a single by Nimmala, a double by Jace Bohrofen, and a walk drawn by Keys. New Hampshire scored five runs in the first inning and eventually built an 8-1 lead before Portland began to close the gap.

Game Progression and Pitching

Portland managed to recover from the early deficit, scoring three runs in the bottom of the ninth inning to tie the game and force extra innings for the second consecutive night of the series.

For New Hampshire, right-handed pitcher Austin Cates made his Double-A debut. Cates pitched four innings, allowing three runs on four hits while striking out two batters. Reliever Kai Peterson recorded the final four outs of the game and earned his first win of the season with a 1-0 record.

Portland’s starting pitcher, right-hander John Holobetz, struggled early, allowing five runs in the first inning and failing to complete the first frame. Infielder Tyler McDonough took the loss after allowing two runs in the 10th inning, bringing his record to 0-1.

Following the victory, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats hold a record of 19-10, while the Portland Sea Dogs are 13-18.